Seanad debates

Wednesday, 1 July 2009

11:00 am

Photo of Labhrás Ó MurchúLabhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

It responds with absolute impunity. It seems to hold the view that one can starve a population into subjection and deny it necessary medicines and yet in some way succeed in achieving a solution for the future. We know from Irish history that this has never worked. What is occurring is that the Israelis are creating a new generation of Palestinians who will realise that dialogue does not bring any results, thereby leading them to believe military action is necessary. Worse again, it is grist to the mill of countries on the sideline, which seem to be at variance with the West at present, when they see what Israel is doing to the Palestinians. This will have an impact globally.

It is vital we have another debate urgently on the Middle East, especially because of the recent incidents. We should place it on the record that we, as representatives of the Irish people, are unhappy with what we now regard as official terrorism. I refer to the starvation of a people, the denial of medicines, the creation of a ghetto that is an open prison in itself and the total disregard for international opinion. It is vital we press this message home. I accept the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin, has been very proactive in this regard. We should supply him with all the support necessary to reinforce the stand he has taken.

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